Policies

Academic Standing

The purpose of academic standards is to ensure students are progressing toward completing their program in a timely manner. A student’s academic standing affects their ability to enroll in classes. All students registered in credit classes will be evaluated for their academic standing at the conclusion of each term. Academic difficulty results when a student is not maintaining academic standards. In addition to the Academic Standing requirements, for a student to maintain financial eligibility they must meet certain requirements.

Good Academic Standing

A student is considered in Good Academic Standing and maintaining academic standards if the student meets the following minimum requirements:

• a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) each term and
• completes at least two-thirds or 66.67% of their term credits attempted (Pace) with grades of A, B, C, D or P.

Academic Alert I

Students who fail to meet the term GPA and/or term Pace standard will be placed on Academic Alert I status and still qualify for enrollment. These students will receive an Academic Alert I notification reminding them of the Academic Standing policy requirements along with a list of academic resources. The student will receive a Registration Hold, preventing enrollment in the current or future term, until they meet with an Academic & Career Coach.  At the end of their next term enrolled, students who meet the minimum term GPA and term Pace standards advance to Good Academic Standing, and students who are unsuccessful at meeting the minimum standards move to Academic Alert II status.

Academic Alert II

Students who are on Academic Alert I status who do not successfully move toward Good Academic Standing status are immediately placed on Academic Alert II status. The student will receive a Registration Hold, preventing enrollment in the current or future term, until they meet with a Counselor.

Academic Suspension

Students who are on Academic Alert II/ status who do not successfully move toward Good Academic Standing status are immediately placed on Academic Suspension status, which suspends enrollment at RCC. This status is noted on a student’s permanent electronic file and on the student’s transcript. The student will receive a Registration Hold and must sit out a term and meet with an RC Counselor before being eligible to submit an Academic Return Packet appeal to be reinstated for a future term.

Reinstatement after Academic Suspension

After sitting out one or more terms and meeting with an RCC Counselor, students placed on Academic Suspension status may reestablish enrollment eligibility by submitting an Academic Return Packet. All Instructions provided in the academic return packet must be followed in order to be considered for return. The academic return packet must be submitted to the Counseling Department by the deadline noted in the return packet and the student will participate in an in-person or web conference meeting with the Academic Reinstatement Committee, if desired or required.

The appeal must describe the situation that led to losing their enrollment eligibility, including any supporting documentation, and explain what they will do differently to ensure success in future terms.

Academic Reinstatement Decisions

The Academic Reinstatement Committee will review appeals and notify the student of the decision. If approved, the student is placed on a Probation status. If denied, the student will remain on Academic Suspension status and will not be eligible to re-enroll and/or receive financial aid for at least one term. After taking a term off, the student has the right to re-appeal, and must describe what they are doing differently to be successful. A student may appeal the decision of the Academic Reinstatement Committee in writing to the Vice President of Student Learning and Success within 7 working days of the date of notification of the decision of the Academic Reinstatement Committee.  Students may appeal based on new information that was not provided to the Reinstatement Committee.

The following information is used to determine a student’s Academic Standing status:

• Successful grades include A, B, C, and P 
• Unsuccessful grades include D, F, I, NP, W, and Y

Probation Status

Students on an Academic Suspension status who successfully submit an Academic Return Packet based on a corrective plan and not extenuating circumstances and are approved for reinstatement will be placed on a Probation status and are not financial aid eligible, however they will have an academic plan designed to bring the student back into good academic standing. Under the academic plan students will be limited in the number of classes they may take. Students who are placed on probation must show overall improvement at the end of each term.

At the end of the Probation term a student will have their academic standing re-evaluated.

• If a student meets the requirements of their academic plan by passing 100% of their classes with a C or better grade in each class and has at least a 2.0 cumulative cGPA the student will be considered in Good Academic Standing.
• If a student meets the requirements of their academic plan, but does not have at least a 2.0 cumulative cGPA, they will remain on probation status until they have at least a 2.0 cumulative cGPA. The Probation status will display on student’s transcript at the end of the next term following Academic Suspension. The student will receive a Registration Hold, preventing enrollment in the current or future term, until they meet with a Counselor.
• Students who do not fulfill the requirements of their academic plan by passing 100% of their classes with a C or better grade will be academically suspended again, see Second or More Academic Suspension section.

Probation (Aid Eligible) Status

Students on a Probation (Aid Eligible) status are financial aid eligible. Students will have an academic plan designed to bring the student back into both Good Academic Standing and Good SAP Standing. Under the academic plan students will be limited in the number of classes they may take. Students who are placed on Probation (Aid Eligible) status must meet the requirements of their academic plan by passing 100% of their classes with a C or better grade in each class.

At the end of the Probation (Aid Eligible) term a student will have their academic standing re-evaluated.

• If a student meets the requirements of their academic plan by passing 100% of their classes with a C or better grade in each class and has at least a 2.0 cumulative cGPA the student will be considered in Good Academic Standing.
• If a student meets the requirements of their academic plan, but does not have at least a 2.0 cumulative cGPA they will be moved to a Probation status, which will display on student’s transcript at the end of the next term following Academic Suspension. The student will receive a Registration Hold, preventing enrollment in the current or future term, until they meet with a Counselor.
• Students who do not fulfill the requirements of their academic plan will be academically suspended again (see Second or More Academic Suspension section below).

Second (or more) Academic Suspension

Students academically suspended more than once will receive a Registration Hold and must sit out a term and they must meet with an RCC Counselor before being eligible to submit an Academic Return Appeal requesting to be reinstated. A student must appeal for reinstatement in-person or via a web conference to the Academic Reinstatement Committee.

Children on Campus

Only students enrolled in classes or labs may sit in on those classes or labs unless the individual instructor or department chair/coordinator makes an exception.

Other minor children who are not necessarily connected to students or employees may be on campus by invitation for a special event or class field trip. Children under high school age (14 years or younger) are not permitted on college campuses, unless directly supervised by a responsible adult.

If children are disruptive, they may be asked to leave the campus and must be escorted by one of the group leaders.

Copyright Infringement

RCC complies with all laws relating to copyright materials. See RCC Administrative Procedures at www.roguecc.edu/BOE/policies.asp.

Copyright infringement occurs when a copyrighted work is reproduced, distributed, performed, publicly displayed, or made into a derivative work without the permission of the copyright owner. This includes unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing.

Copyright infringement may subject students to civil and criminal liabilities. They may be ordered to pay actual damages or “statutory” damages of not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court also can assess costs and attorneys’ fees.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more information, visit the U.S. Copyright Office.

RCC librarians are available to help with copyright issues. Librarians may assist in obtaining copyright permissions and in locating materials in databases that may be used without the need to get copyright permission.

Notice of Non-Discrimination and Title IX Compliance

www.roguecc.edu/nondiscrimination

Rogue Community College does not discriminate in any programs, activities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, use of native language, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local laws.

For the most up-to-date information about this policy visit the “Title IX Compliance” page on RCC’s website.

For further policy information and for a full list of regulatory specific contact persons visit RCC’s Nondiscrimination page.

Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress

www.roguecc.edu/SAP

In addition to the Academic Standing requirements, a student must meet Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements in order to maintain Financial Aid eligibility. A student is considered to be in Good Standing for SAP and making satisfactory academic progress if the student maintains:

• At least a 2.0 cumulative grade point average (cGPA) and
• At least a 66.67% cumulative credit completion rate (cPace) by completing credits attempted and earning A, B, C, D, and P grades. (Calculated by dividing RCC cumulative earned credits by RCC cumulative attempted credits) and
• Students must complete their program of study within the 150% maximum time frame (calculated by taking program credit length and multiplying that by 150%). Program length does not include up to 45 attempted developmental education (DE) credits. DE credits are courses numbered under 100, such as MTH20 and RD90.

The following Financial Aid SAP statuses do NOT appear on a student’s transcript.

Financial Aid Warning Status

A student will be placed on Financial Aid Warning status (and still qualify for financial aid) if either of the following occurs:

• A student does not earn a cumulative GPA of 2.0, and/or
• A student does not complete 66.67% of their total attempted RCC credits (cPace) with grades of A, B, C, D, or P.

At the end of the first term of unsatisfactory academic progress, a student will receive a SAP Warning letter notifying them of their SAP status and reminding them of the SAP requirements. At the end of their next term enrolled, a student on Financial Aid Warning status will have their financial aid SAP status re-evaluated.

• If the student has a cGPA of 2.0 or greater, and a cPace of at least 66.67%, the student will be considered in Good SAP Standing and will be notified of such.
• If the student does not have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and at least a 66.67% cumulative Pace credit completion rate, they will be moved to Financial Aid Suspension status.

Financial Aid Suspension Status
Students on Warning status who do not successfully achieve Good Standing (meeting the SAP requirements highlighted above), and students who have exceeded the 150% Max Time Frame standard, are placed on Financial Aid Suspension status. A student will receive notification about their financial aid SAP status along with a link to the financial aid SAP policy.

A student on Financial Aid Suspension status is not eligible for federal, state, and institutional aid unless the student appeals for financial aid reinstatement and the appeal is approved. Students may submit a Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal to request reinstatement of their financial aid. If the SAP appeal is approved, financial aid students will be placed on Probation (Financial Aid Eligible) status.

At the end of their next term of enrollment, a student on Financial Aid Suspension status will have their financial aid SAP re-evaluated.

• If the student has at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and at least a 66.67% cumulative Pace credit completion rate then the student will be considered in Good SAP standing.
• If the student does not have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and at least a 66.67% cumulative Pace credit completion rate the student’s financial aid will remain in a suspended status. Students may appeal for financial aid reinstatement by completing a Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeal (SAP) form.

Probation (Aid Eligible) Status

Students who have an approved SAP Appeal will be placed on a Probation (Aid Eligible) status and are financial aid eligible.  Probation (Aid Eligible) status allows students to receive aid while working toward meeting the Good SAP Standing requirements.
At the end of their next enrolled term, a student on a Probation (Aid Eligible) status will have their financial aid SAP re-evaluated.

• If the student has at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and at least a 66.67% cumulative Pace credit completion rate then the student will be considered in Good SAP Standing.
• If the student does not have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and at least a 66.67% cumulative Pace credit completion rate the student will return to a Financial Aid Suspended status.

Students who continue to show overall improvement toward the Good SAP Standing requirements, but need more than one term to reach Good SAP Standing, may submit another SAP appeal to request an additional Probation (Aid Eligible) term.

Max Time Frame Financial Aid Suspension

Students who have applied for financial aid and who cannot complete their program in the maximum 150% allotted credit time frame, or who have a prior associates degree or higher, will be placed on Financial Aid Suspension status. Students may submit a Credit Extension Appeal (CEA) for financial aid reinstatement. If approved, students must only register in courses required to complete their program and they must successfully complete all classes with a grade of A, B, C or P in order to maintain their financial aid eligibility.

Grade Appeal & Grade Change Process (AP 4231)

Academic evaluation of student performance by instructors shall be based on academic performance and under no circumstances be prejudicial or capricious. At the same time, students are responsible for maintaining the standards of academic performance established by instructors for the courses in which they have enrolled.

Each instructor shall give students clearly stated written criteria for evaluation. To appeal an academic evaluation (grade) within the past year (four academic terms), a student may start the process by discussing the grade method in question with the instructor.

If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of their discussion with the instructor, they may appeal the decision to the Department Chair. If a student believes further appeal is warranted they may appeal a Department Chair’s decision to the Dean of the area where the instructor’s program resides. If a student is not satisfied with the Dean’s decision, an appeal may be made to the Vice President of Student Learning & Success. Any decision made by the Vice President of Student Learning & Success is final.

The Grade Appeal Procedure

Provides the student with a process for appealing a final course grade when the student believes an improper evaluation has occurred. “Improper evaluation” is defined as: (1) the evaluation standards and grading criteria contained in the course syllabus were not followed by the instructor; or (2) the final grade was imposed in an arbitrary or capricious manner.

For academic evaluation (grade) appeals where a student believes a miscalculation of the final points, scores, and/or grades occurred, the student may file a Grade Change Petition form.  The form may be accessed at www.roguecc.edu/enrollmentServices/forms.asp.

Grade Change Petitions

College policy states that instructors may change grades up to one year after a course has been completed. Petitions after one year will be considered only with documented extraordinary circumstances, such as illness, military service, or incarceration.

All change of grade requests must rest upon a miscalculation of the final points, scores, and/or grades.

The assignment of a grade is the responsibility of the instructor of record. Thus, any changes to an assigned grade can only be made by the instructor. If the instructor is not available, see G., below.

Students who believe their final grade for a course as reflected in the official college transcript to be erroneous must:

1. submit a Grade Change Petition (forms available at http://www.roguecc.edu/Enrollment/Forms to the instructor of record within one (1) calendar year of the last day of the term in which the grade was assigned,
2. include the reason(s) why the recorded grade is being challenged, and
3. provide copies of any evidence that supports the request (e.g. graded papers, graded exams, course syllabus, and graded quizzes).

Within 2 weeks of receiving the petition (and if received during the term) the instructor will inform the student in writing of their decision and, if denied, the reasons for the denial. A copy of the letter and the completed Grade Change Petition will then be submitted to Enrollment Services. The decision shall be deemed final and no further action will be taken. If petition is received during a break between terms or during summer term then a response will be given at the beginning of the next term.

If approved Enrollment Services will notify the student in writing regarding the final decision and retain a copy of the petition, documentation, final decision and grade change form, if appropriate, in the student file.

If the instructor of record is no longer employed by the College, or is otherwise unavailable, the Department Chair of the petitioned course will make every attempt to contact the instructor of record and come to a resolution. If the Department Chair is unable to contact the instructor, the Department Chair will make a decision based on the available evidence and take appropriate action as outlined above. In this case, the final decision of the Department Chair shall be deemed final and no further action will be taken.

Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Freedoms

www.roguecc.edu/student-rights

To request this document in an alternate format, contact Access and Disability Resources.

Contact:  Access & Disability Resources at 541-956-7337

Oregon Relay Service: 711

Preamble

Rogue Community College (RCC or the College) provides an environment which encourages learning. The College is dedicated to the open exchange of knowledge and skills, growth in student capacity for critical thinking, and the development of ethically sensitive and responsible students. The College recognizes that all individuals and groups at RCC have dignity and worth.

Learning and teaching are inseparable aspects of academic pursuit. Standards of academic rights and freedoms for students, as outlined below, are essential. Students have responsibilities for performance and conduct. Students’ enrollment (or attempted enrollment) implies their acceptance of their responsibility to comply with college policies and procedures.

Enrollment forms for Students

Student Responsibilities, Rights, and Freedoms (AP 5990)

I. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES​

A. Students will be responsible for:

1. Learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled, participating in class activities, and knowing the rules and regulations governing the educational community.
2. Following the lawful direction of college personnel, including providing information and personal identification when requested.
3. Respecting the teaching/learning environment by interacting with civility within the classroom, including face-to-face, online, and hybrid class formats, and following safety guidelines
4. Respecting the rights of others and cooperating to ensure that such rights are protected.
5. Exercising dissent in a responsible manner and within a framework compatible with the orderly resolution of differences
6. Maintaining honesty and integrity in all work (as outlined in the Academic Integrity procedure), communication, and interactions;
7. Maintaining the standards of academic performance established by instructors for the courses in which they are enrolled.
8. Properly using college equipment, computers and facilities, including timely return of loaned equipment/materials
9. Complying with all college policies and regulations, including those posted in labs and classrooms.
10. Complying with local, state, and federal laws.
11. Utilizing established procedures to influence change or challenge RCC policies & regulations.

II. STUDENT RIGHTS

A. Students will have the right to:

1. Be protected against improper academic evaluation. Students have protection through orderly procedure against unfair academic evaluation (See AP 4231 Grade Appeal & Grade Change Process). Student’s grades will be based solely on academic achievement, unless otherwise specified by the instructor in writing in the syllabus.
2. Confidentiality of student records. RCC will abide by federal and state regulations regarding the privacy of student records and comply with the law regarding access procedures.
3. Due process in disciplinary proceedings. Students will have the right to be notified of the charges, will be afforded the opportunity to be heard, and will have the right to be assisted without prejudice by an advisor who may be an attorney. (See BP/AP 5500, AP 5520)
4. Reasonable accommodation.  RCC is committed to providing opportunities to students with disabilities in order for them to have meaningful access to college programs and services.
5. Exercise their rights of citizenship. As citizens, students have the same freedoms of speech, right to peaceful assembly, and the right to petition as other citizens. As members of the College community, students are subject to the obligations as a student which accrue to them by virtue of this membership. International and undocumented students, though holding citizenship in another country, are considered members of the college community.

Activities of students may sometimes result in violation of law. Students who violate the law may incur penalties prescribed by civil authorities. College authority is not used merely to duplicate the function of general laws. RCC’s special authority may be asserted at those times when its interests are involved.

III. STUDENT FREEDOMS

A. Students will be free to:

1. Organize and join associations to promote common interests subject to the formal requirements for recognition by the Associated Student Government of RCC, the college’s Student Government, as a condition of institutional recognition.  Students, student clubs, and student organizations may invite individuals as presenters for forums outside of classes and do not discriminate on the basis of protected classes as outlined by Administrative Procedure 3435. 
2. State any reasoned exception to information or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion without it affecting their grade as long as the disagreement is not disruptive to the instructional process.
3. Examine and discuss all questions of interest to them and express opinions publicly and privately. In accordance with Board Policy and Administrative Procedure 3900 Speech - Time Place and Manner, students will be free to support causes by orderly means, in ways that do not disrupt the regular and essential operation of the College or violate college policies or procedures. 
4. Participate in institutional governance. The Associated Student Government of RCC (ASGRCC) serve as the student government body, and through this body, students are afforded the right to have student representation on selected RCC councils and committees.  Students may participate in formulating and applying policies and procedures affecting academic and student affairs through student government as well as through the various college councils and committees. Students are free to express their views on issues of college policy and matters of general interest to the student body. Students may also make presentations to the RCC Board of Education, as citizens, by contacting the Assistant to the Board of Education at (541-956-7001) and requesting to be added to the next monthly Board meeting agenda.
5. Engage in free and responsible discussion through student clubs, organizations, publications and student press, all questions of interest to them and express opinions publicly and privately. They may support causes by orderly means, which do not disrupt college operations. in conformance with local, state and federal laws and professional codes.

It should be made clear to the academic and larger community that, in their public expression, students, student clubs, and student organizations speak for themselves and not as representatives of the College or the College Community.

B. Students will be free from:

1. Unlawful discrimination. In order for Rogue Community College to maintain a place of learning and work that is free of unlawful discrimination, Rogue Community College provides equal educational and employment opportunities and provides service benefits to all individuals without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, place of birth, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, political affiliation or belief, GED, veteran status, or/and other status or characteristic protected by applicable state or federal law and in compliance with Administrative Procedure 3410 Non-discrimination and 3430 Prohibition of Discrimination and Harassment.
2. Unlawful harassment. Rogue Community College is committed to providing a learning and working environment free of harassment; in compliance with AP 3430, 3432, and 3435.
3. Unlawful sexual harassment/sexual assault and violence. Rogue Community College is committed to providing all individuals with the opportunity to work and learn in an environment free from sexual harassment/sexual assault; in compliance with AP 3433.  For physical assaults/violence, see also AP 3500 Campus Safety, AP 3510 Workplace Violence, and AP 3515 Reporting of Crimes. STUDENT PUBLICATIONS (AP 5991)

Standards of Student Conduct (AP 5500)

For the purposes of this and associated procedures a member of the college community is defined as a student, staff, faculty member, other employee, volunteer, board member or other individual engaged in lawful activity on Rogue Community College (RCC) property or at any RCC sponsored event or function.

1. Prohibited Behaviors

The following conduct shall constitute good cause for discipline, including but not limited to the removal, suspension, or expulsion of a student:

1. Causing, attempting to cause, or threatening to cause physical injury to another person.
2. Possession, sale, or otherwise furnishing any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object, including but not limited to any facsimile firearm, knife, or explosive, unless, in the case of possession of any object of this type, the student has obtained written permission to possess the item from a Rogue Community College employee, which is concurred in by the President or designee.
3. Unlawful possession, use, sale, offer to sell, or furnishing, or being under the influence of, any controlled substance, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind; or unlawful possession of, or offering, arranging or negotiating the sale of any drug paraphernalia.  These behaviors are prohibited on campus, at any RCC sponsored activity, or using any RCC controlled technology or resources.
4. Committing or attempting to commit robbery or extortion.
5. Causing or attempting to cause damage to RCC’s property or to private property on campus.
6. Stealing or attempting to steal RCC property or private property on campus, or knowingly receiving stolen RCC property or private property on campus.
7. Willful or persistent smoking in any area where smoking has been prohibited by law or by regulation of the college.
8. Committing sexual misconduct, harassment, or discrimination as defined by law or by RCC policies and procedures.  Resolution of these allegations will occur under RCC policies and procedures related to protected class discrimination and harassment. 
9. Engaging in harassing or discriminatory behavior based on disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law.  Resolution of these allegations will occur under RCC policies and procedures related to protected class discrimination and harassment.
10. Engaging in intimidating conduct or bullying against a college community member through words or actions, including direct physical contact; verbal assaults, such as teasing or name-calling; social isolation or manipulation; and cyberbullying;
11. Willful misconduct which results in injury or death to a student or to employees or which results in cutting, defacing, or other injury to any real or personal property owned by RCC or on campus.
12. Disruptive behavior, willful disobedience, habitual profanity or vulgarity, or the open and persistent defiance of the authority of, or persistent abuse of, college personnel.
13. Cheating, plagiarism (including plagiarism in a student publication), or engaging in other academic dishonesty.
14. Dishonesty, forgery, alteration or misuse of college documents, records or identification; or knowingly furnishing false information to RCC.
15. Unauthorized entry upon or use of RCC facilities.
16. Lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct directed towards a College Community member regardless of geographic location.
17. Engaging in expression which is obscene; libelous, or slanderous; or which so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on college premises, or the violation of lawful RCC administrative procedures, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of RCC.
18. Persistent, serious misconduct where other means of correction have failed to bring about proper conduct.
19. Failure to follow a directive.  Students are required to follow the lawful directives of RCC personnel acting in the performance of their duties.
20. Hazing.  Students are not permitted to haze other students.  Hazing is subjecting an individual to bodily harm, purposeful mental harm, humiliation, harassment, compelling an individual to consume controlled substances or alcohol, or requiring an individual to commit a crime as a condition or precondition of attaining membership in an organization or attaining any office or status within an organization.  

2. Records Retention

Records of alleged student misconduct, documentation of those allegations, evidence used to determine if allegations are substantiated, and the resolution of those allegations will be maintained separate from a student’s other educational records and retained in accordance with RCC policies and procedures on record retention.

Student Discipline Procedures (AP 5520)

The purpose of this procedure is to provide a prompt and equitable means to address alleged violations of the Standards of Student Conduct This procedure guarantees to the student, or students, involved the due process rights guaranteed them by state and federal constitutional protections. This procedure will be used in a fair and equitable manner, and not for purposes of retaliation.  It is not intended to substitute for criminal or civil proceedings that may be initiated by other agencies.

These administrative procedures are specifically not intended to infringe in any way on the rights of students to engage in free expression as protected by the state and federal constitutions and will not be used to punish expression that is protected.

Definitions

Day - Working days when Rogue Community College (RCC) is open for operations including days the college is open between terms.

Direct Resolution - An attempt by any RCC employee to resolve an issue which they believe to be a violation of the standards of conduct. 

Disciplinary Probation - Specific conditions or restrictions while in attendance at RCC, in addition to the Student Code of Conduct, for a specified period of time. The Compliance Coordinator will communicate the specific behavior leading to this sanction and the specific conditions or restrictions imposed for the specified period of time to the student, in writing. The student will sign the document provided by the College and agree to abide by its terms or forfeit all rights to continue attendance at RCC.

Educational Sanction - A student may be assigned academic work that reflects on the impact of their actions and/or educates them about how to avoid similar behavior in the future.

Expulsion - Termination of student status and denial of further college privileges. Conditions of readmission, if any, will be listed in the letter of expulsion given as a notice to the student by the Compliance Coordinator.

Instructor - Any academic employee of RCC in whose class a student subject to discipline is enrolled.

Suspension - Exclusion of the student by the Compliance Coordinator, or designee, for good cause from one or more classes for the remainder of the school term, or from all classes and activities of the college for one or more terms.  A student can also be removed - for good cause - from a particular program of study.

RCC Employee - Anyone engaged by RCC to perform educational, service, administrative, or other functions regardless of if this individual is compensated by RCC.

Removal from class - Exclusion of the student by an instructor for the day of the removal and the next class meeting.

Restitution - compensation or reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property, which may take the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages. Conditions of restitution will be detailed in a letter to student.

Student - Any person currently enrolled as a student at any college or in any program offered by the college or a person taking steps to enroll or reenroll.

Written or verbal reprimand - An admonition to the student to cease and desist from conduct determined to violate the Standards of Student Conduct.  Written reprimands will become part of a student’s permanent record at the college.  A record of the fact that a verbal reprimand has been given will become part of a student’s record at the college for a period of up to one year.

Resolution Process

1. Direct Resolution

If any RCC Employee believes a student is engaged in conduct which violates RCC’s standards of conduct - listed in AP 5500 - they are encouraged to attempt to resolve this issue directly with the student.  RCC encourages direct resolution but it is not required.  If personal safety is at risk please contact 911 or campus security as appropriate.  If direct resolution is attempted please complete an incident report regardless of the outcome.

2. Compliance Coordinator

If direct resolution is inappropriate or unsuccessful the college employee should complete an incident report within 3 working days of the behavior in question.  Within 7 working days of receiving the report the Compliance Coordinator, or designee, will contact the student and other involved parties.

The student who is accused of violating RCC’s standards of conduct will be contacted to schedule a meeting with the Compliance Coordinator or designee.  The Compliance Coordinator, or designee, may use multiple processes to help resolve the issue.  The student will be informed of the behavior they are accused of and be allowed an opportunity to explain or deny the behavior.

The Compliance Coordinator, or designee, may - as necessary - conduct an investigation into the accused behavior including reviewing available evidence and speaking to witnesses.  The Compliance Coordinator, or designee, will use the preponderance of the evidence standard in determining if a student’s behavior violated RCC’s standards of conduct.

If a student is found to have violated RCC’s standards of conduct the Compliance Coordinator, or designee, may assign a sanction proportional to the student’s conduct.  Available sanctions are listed in this procedure under the heading Sanctions.

Students will be notified of the Compliance Coordinator, or designee’s, decision and any sanction, as appropriate, in writing.  When determining a sanction, the Compliance Coordinator, or designee, may take a student’s disciplinary history with RCC into account.

3. Appeal to the Vice President of Student Services

Students receiving a written notice of disciplinary action for a violation of RCC’s standards of conduct have the right to appeal in writing to the Vice President of Student Services, or designee.  Any appeal must be received within 7 working days of receiving the notice of disciplinary action.

Students may appeal based on:

1. Failure to follow the process for resolving allegations of inappropriate behavior as outlined in this procedure;
2. New evidence is available that was not available during the initial investigation; or
3. The sanction imposed is disproportionate to the offense the student is found responsible for.

Within 10 working days of receiving an appeal the Vice President of Student Services, or designee, will review the initial report, the investigation process, the findings, and any sanctions.  As part of this process they may consult with RCC administrators to insure consistency and fairness within the process.  The Vice President of Student Services, or designee, will report their findings and conclusions to the student and the Compliance Coordinator.  The decision of the Vice President of Student Services, or designee, is final.

Sanctions

If a student is found to have violated RCC’s standards of conduct, they may face discipline from RCC.  Disciplinary sanctions available to the Compliance Coordinator, or designee, are:

1. Verbal or written reprimand
2. Disciplinary probation
3. Educational Sanction
4. Suspension
5. Expulsion
6. Restitution
7. Other - including directives for behavior and plans of action.

Removal from Class or Campus

Any RCC employee may order a student removed from campus for the day of the removal and the next day.  This removal should be based on behavior that violates the standards of conduct, is causing a significant disruption, and is not corrected when challenged with direct resolution. 

The employee shall immediately report the removal to the Compliance Coordinator using an incident report.  The Compliance Coordinator, or designee, shall attempt to contact the student within 2 working days of receiving the report to set a meeting.

The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss the conduct that led to the removal from class, attempt to resolve the problem that led to the removal, and determine appropriate disciplinary action.

Student Concern & Complaint Procedure (AP 5530)

If students need disability accommodations to successfully complete this process, contact Access and Disability Resources by calling (541) 956-7337 or visiting the website: roguecc.edu/accessresources

When Not to Use this Procedure

This procedure is not the appropriate process for addressing allegations of harassment or discrimination based on a protected class such as race, color, religion, ethnicity, use of native language, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.  For resolutions of complaints of this nature please use AP 3430 - Prohibition of Discrimination and Harassment and AP 3435 - Discrimination and Harassment Reports and Investigations.

Grade appeals shall be filed according to the applicable procedure outlined in Rogue Community College’s Student Grade Appeals administrative procedure (AP 4231).

Definitions

Concern: A report of conduct which a student feels violates their rights and/or RCC policies or procedures where resolution is being attempted under the informal process of this procedure.

Complaint: A report of conduct which a student feels violates their rights and/or RCC policies or procedures where resolution is being attempted under the formal process of this procedure.

Retaliation: Any behavior which negatively impacts the student because they reported a concern or filed a complaint.

Preamble

This procedure is designed to ensure that students have full access to their education in accordance with Rogue Community College’s commitment to the rights and dignity of our students and the College’s philosophy on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to provide an appropriate mechanism to address concerns and complaints brought forth by students while also 1) ensuring due process for students and staff; 2) resolving conflict at the lowest level possible; and 3) identifying areas for continuous improvement.

This procedure provides a way for students to seek resolution to decisions, conditions, and practices of Rogue Community College (RCC or the College) and its employees, which they allege are violations of their rights as students, as identified in RCC’s Student Responsibilities, Rights, and Freedoms procedure (AP 5990), or other published college policies and procedures. As students pursue their educational goals, they will be treated with professionalism and respect by college employees or staff.

Students shall not be retaliated against for reporting a concern or filing a complaint in good faith or for participating in this process. Retaliation is any behavior that negatively impacts the student because they reported a concern or filed a complaint.

This procedure outlines the steps to resolve alleged violations of student rights or other published college policies and procedures. Students will attempt to resolve alleged violations with the staff member(s) directly involved.

Students may utilize an advocate at any point in the process. However, students are expected to act on their own behalf and represent themselves, with or without an advocate, throughout the entirely of the process of reporting a concern or filing a complaint. Advocates may be an RCC Counselor or any other person of the student’s choosing who may provide support.

The role of an advocate in this process is to serve as a resource for the student.  Advocates are a point of contact to assist the student in advocating for themselves, and may help the student identify a reasonable proposed resolution.  Advocates may be present for conversations, but may not speak on behalf of the student.  In the role of advocate, RCC Counselors are recommended, but not required to keep working files as part of this process.

Each College employee attempting to reach a resolution of a complaint will keep a working file containing all documents, communications, and evidence related to the complaint.  If a resolution is not reached, it is the responsibility of the College employee working to achieve a resolution to provide this working file to the next person in the process.  Upon resolution of a formal complaint, this working file will be provided to the office of the Vice President of Student Learning & Success for retention.  All documentation submitted or created during the resolution process shall follow this established filing procedure. 

Students with a concern or complaint shall follow the procedures and timelines outlined below.

Informal Resolution

Step 1: Attempt Direct Resolution

 The student discusses the issue with the College employee who is directly involved.  The goal is to find a resolution in a timely manner, at the lowest level. The student may choose to be accompanied by an advocate such as an RCC Counselor, or other person of their choosing, during this discussion.  The student is required to communicate directly with the College employee involved, but this communication does not have to be “in-person”; it can also be electronic. It is the responsibility of the College employee who is directly involved in the concern to respond to communication or requests for communication as soon as is reasonable, and generally within seven (7) working days.

If no resolution is reached, the student may move to step 2.

Step 2: Resolution with Department Chair or Immediate Supervisor

 If the issue is not resolved directly with the College employee, the student may seek resolution with the employee’s Department Chair or immediate supervisor. The student may choose to be accompanied by an advocate during these discussions; however, the student is expected to be present and to speak on their own behalf. The student must clearly state the problem and a proposed resolution.  It is the responsibility of the Department Chair or Immediate Supervisor to respond to communication or requests for communication as soon as is reasonable, and generally within seven (7) working days.

Appropriate written documentation will be maintained by the Department Chair or immediate supervisor.

If no resolution is reached, the student may move to Step 3.  If the College employee who is the subject of the complaint is a Department Chair or Director, the student should skip this step and move directly to Step 3.

Formal Complaint Procedure

Step 3: Resolution with Dean or Next Level Supervisor

 If the issue is not resolved at Step 2, the student may seek resolution with the supervising Dean, next level supervisor, or if necessary, a designee appointed by the corresponding supervisor’s Vice President. To do this, a student has seven (7) working days from receiving notice their concern could not be satisfactorily resolved at Step 2 to complete a Student Complaint Form and provide it to the supervising Dean or next level supervisor/designee.

The student must provide a written description of the issue, the steps the student has taken to attempt to resolve that issue, and clearly state a proposed resolution.

Within a reasonable timeframe, and generally by ten (10) working days of receiving the Student Complaint Form, the supervising Dean or next level supervisor/designee will 1) contact relevant witnesses and participants involved in the specific complaint and gather appropriate information and/or documentation; and 2) contact the student to schedule a meeting to discuss a mutually satisfactory solution.

If no mutually agreeable resolution is possible, the Dean (or next level supervisor/designee) will conduct an inquiry or investigation proportionate to the nature of the complaint. In this case, the Dean (or next level supervisor/designee) shall contact the student within a reasonable timeframe, generally within five (5) working days of the prior meeting, to 1) provide an appropriate timeline to conduct the investigation, and 2) schedule the follow-up meeting with the student, to occur within a reasonable timeframe and generally within five (5) working days after scheduled completion of the investigation. 

Based on the information available as a result of the investigation, the Dean or next level supervisor will determine an appropriate resolution, and will communicate that resolution to the participants, including the student complainant, as well as the individual named in the complaint

Appropriate written documentation will be maintained by the supervising Dean or next level supervisor and filing procedures will be followed with the Vice President of Student Learning & Success, who will be provided with copies of all written documentation related to the informal and formal process thus far.

If no resolution is reached, the student has seven (7) working days to proceed to Step 4.

Complaints submitted without a clearly identified resolution will be considered as information provided to support continuous improvement for instructional and/or operational practices and the complaint will be considered resolved with regard to further student contact.

Step 4: Appeal Process

 If the student is not satisfied with the dean’s or immediate supervisor’s resolution, the student has the right of final appeal of the complaint to the Vice President of Student Learning & Success. The final appeal process requires the student to prepare and deliver a written appeal request to the Vice President within seven (7) working days after they have been notified of the determined resolution in Step 3. The written appeal request must include an explanation of why the issue remains unresolved and must provide a proposed remedy to the complaint.

Within ten (10) working days of receiving the student appeal, the Vice President of Student Learning & Success will review the complaint, the investigation process, and the proposed resolution(s). They may consult with the administrative team and/or the College President in the review process to assure consistency within RCC.

The review may include, but not be limited to, an interview of the student complainant, College employee and/or other involved parties. The Vice President of Student Learning & Success will report the findings and conclusions to the student complainant, the College employee(s) involved, and the Dean or immediate supervisor with a written and signed document. Established filing procedures will be followed within the Vice President of Student Learning & Success’ office, and the entire working file will be kept by the Office of the Vice President of Student Learning & Success at the conclusion of the formal process

The determination of the Vice President of Student Learning & Success will be final.

Conflict of Interest and Complaints against Senior Leadership

 If a supervisor of dean is named as the respondent in a complaint, or if a conflict of interest exists at Step 2 or beyond, the next-level supervisor of the individual named in the complaint or with a conflict will designate an alternate to step in and fill the role. Individuals are expected to recuse themselves if they believe that a perceived or actual conflict exists and contact their supervisor to request an appointed designee.

Complaints against a Vice President of Rogue Community College should first be attempted to be resolved directly.  If no resolution is reached directly, the student shall forward their complaint to the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety/CHRO who will act in accordance with Step 2.  The student will contact the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety within 7 working days if no resolution is reached directly.  After meeting with the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety, a decision regarding resolution will be made and communicated within a reasonable timeframe, and generally within 7 working days. If no resolution is reached with the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety/CHRO, or the complaint is against the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety/CHRO, the student shall provide the Student Complaint form to the President of Rogue Community College, who will investigate and resolve the issue as appropriate.

Complaints against the College President should first be attempted to be resolved directly. If no resolution is reached directly, the student shall forward their complaint to the Vice President of People, Culture, & Safety/CHRO, who will work with the Chairperson of the RCC Board of Education to investigate and resolve the issue as appropriate.

Drug and Alcohol-Free Campus

For the most up-to-date information visit the “Drug and Alcohol-Free Campus” policy on the RCC website. 

Rogue Community College (RCC or the College) is committed to providing an environment that fosters excellence in learning for its students and community and in the work performance of all employees. The misuse and illegal use of alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs is contrary to this effort. In keeping with state and federal statutes, the illegal use, possession, distribution, manufacture, or sale of alcohol, cannabinoids (Marijuana), and other drugs, and/or being under the influence of alcohol, marijuana and other drugs is not permitted on college-owned or college-controlled property; or while representing the College on business or in other college-sponsored activity(ies).

There shall be no consumption of alcohol at college-owned facilities unless such use is authorized by the College President. RCC complies with the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations (EDGAR Part 86) and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990 by developing a drug-free campus program, including the misuse and illegal use of alcohol, marijuana and other drugs.

While Oregon voters approved a ballot measure in 2014 making Oregon the third state to allow possession and sale of marijuana for recreational use, students’ and employees’ welfare, as well as teaching and learning are the College’s top priorities. As a public institution, RCC receives federal funding in the form of grants and financial aid. Therefore, allowing any use of marijuana would be in violation of that law, thus jeopardizing the College’s mission and the College’s students’ educations. Under federal law, marijuana is designated as a Schedule 1 drug.

A biennial review and report will be completed to determine the effectiveness and the consistency of sanction enforcement and to identify and implement any necessary changes.

Use of Tobacco

For the most up-to-date information visit the “Use of Tobacco” policy on the RCC website. The College is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its employees, students and visitors. Smoking and other tobacco use is not permitted on campus by anyone under 21 years of age and except in designated smoking and tobacco use areas. College employees and students are encouraged to assist in informing and educating co-workers and other students about the designated areas.